Padres’ Xander Bogaerts frustrated by slow start
SAN DIEGO– Mike Shildt is loathe to ever criticize his players’ struggles or lack of production, instead choosing to revel in optimism and point out the gaudy stats on the back of their baseball cards.
Padres shortstop Xander Bogaerts isn’t as forgiving when it comes to his own struggles, personal expectations or the current state of his 2025 baseball card.
Hours after recording his first RBI in nearly three weeks, as well as his first home run of the season in the Padres 7-4 win over the San Francisco Giants, the 32-year old shortstop reflected on what can only be described as an underwhelming month for one of the Padres highest-paid players.
“This homer, it definitely helped,” said Bogaerts. “Helped us win a nice game, felt good to be able to contribute, you know? I didn’t feel like many nights I’ve been able to contribute so one like tonight, it can go a long way.”
Not only did Bogaerts’ home run lift the proverbial monkey off his back and temporarily quiet some of the fans who booed him in his game-ending at-bat on Sunday, it snapped the Padres four-game losing streak.
“The RBI is great but the homer is different,” said Bogaerts. “I haven’t had one of those in a while, so it was good to feel that.”
As the Padres await the impending return of star centerfielder Jackson Merrill and second baseman Jake Cronenworth from the injured list, they could certainly use a lot more production from Bogaerts, who went 2-for-4 and recorded his first three RBI game since August 11, 2024.
Bogaerts, who has a current slash line of .250/.339/.360, has not been the same offensive player that he was during his illustrious career with the Boston Sox, where he amassed five Silver Slugger awards to go along with four All-Star appearances and two World Series championships. His .307 OBP and .381 SLG in 2024 were his lowest since becoming a full time starter in 2014.
And while Bogaerts may never live up to the expectations that come with an 11-year, $280 million contract, it was clear on Tuesday night how much he’s been bothered by his rather pedestrian season.
“Not being able to play the way you want to, I know how much pride I take in myself,” said Bogaerts.” I know how much I expect of myself and when I’m not able to do that, it’s extremely frustrating. And as I say, I always held myself to high standards and that’s how it’s always been.”
Bogaerts admitted he’s seen and heard the criticism from frustrated Padres fans but is focused on blocking it all out and figuring it out on the field.
“Just come in here try to help the team. The more you can block out those noises, I mean it’s better for you. It definitely does you no good so why pay much attention? We’re playing really good as a team and I always learned from a young age from my uncle. My uncle learned me and my brother to play and he always said you can’t keep a good man down for too long. So I always wore that in my heart and my chest and that’s the way I approach the game of baseball.”
His manager bristled at the suggestion that Bogaerts’ season, up until this point, could be considered anything but a struggle.
“It’s unfair to point a finger at anybody,” said Shildt. “And clearly especially him, he’s on pace for 40-something doubles. I think if you looked up and you took 40-something doubles out of any of our players including Bogey, you’d probably feel pretty good about it. He’s a guy that’s helped us win games and you know I’m really unsure to answer the question because I really don’t look at Bogey as anything but a benefit to the club. Sometimes the game is hard for a couple of games so I really don’t know what to say beyond that.”
With the season-high four-game losing streak behind them and the first home run of the season checked, the Padres and Bogaerts just hope that another winning streak and more home runs will ensue.
“All it takes is one,” said Bogaerts. “Hopefully we continue from there.”
Jason Heyward, who was activated from the injured list on Monday, lauded his locker mate for his approach during his struggles.
“We all struggle, that’s a part of the game. He’s right there for all of us, picking us up as well. It was nice to see him have his night. That looks like Bogey to me.”
